Career Development for Veterans, People With Disabilities

Navigating the job market and achieving career growth can come with unique challenges for individuals with disabilities. To this end, the United States government has developed a range of resources specifically tailored to support people with disabilities, including veterans, in their career development journeys. These programs provide guidance, training, financial aid, and ongoing support to help participants build fulfilling career paths.

As of 2022, nearly 5 million military veterans in the U.S. were living with a service-connected disability. In returning to civilian life, career development counseling and related resources can prove essential, whether they want to start their own business, earn a degree, or find work in an industry that is new to them. With November marking Veterans and Military Families Awareness Month, here is a glimpse into a sampling of several programs designed to support them, their families, as well as other individuals with disabilities.

Disabled Veterans Outreach Program

Disabled Veterans Outreach Program (DVOP) provides services to meet the employment needs of disabled and other eligible veterans who are reintegrating into the workforce. Veterans work one on one with a trained DVOP specialist to prepare their resume, find a suitable job, locate housing support, and more. This program places an emphasis on serving veterans who are economically or educationally disadvantaged, such as those facing barriers to employment or who are experiencing homelessness.

To apply, reach out to an American Job Center near you.

Transition Assistance Program

The Transition Assistance Program (TAP) is a cooperative effort between the Veterans Employment and Training Service, the Department of Defense, the Department of Homeland Security, and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Each branch of the military has its own dedicated program.

TAP provides career information for active-duty service members and members of the National Guard and Reserves to help them as they prepare to separate or retire from the military and return to civilian life. Program resources include online and in-person classes and training workshops, career assessments, worksheets, virtual discussions, and more. Spouses of service members are also able to access the program.

Search for the Transition Assistance Program closest to you, or learn more about the program in this podcast episode.

American Job Centers

The American Job Center (ACJ) programs offer nearly 2,300 locations across the U.S. that offer high-quality workforce services for job seekers, workers, and businesses. Employment assistance and training through an AJC are generally free. Resources vary by location but can include:

• Job training services
• Career counseling
• Job search assistance
• Resource rooms with phones, internet access, and resume writing tools
• Labor market and employer information
• Skills testing
• Hiring events and business service information

VA Educational and Vocational Counseling

The VA Chapter 36 program offers free educational and career guidance, resources, and planning to qualifying military service members, veterans, and their dependents who are eligible for a VA education benefit. Through the program, eligible individuals can explore their vocational interests, aptitudes, and abilities; research vocational career opportunities; choose appropriate career goals; address barriers that may impede success in training or employment; and develop educational program objectives.

Applications for these benefits are accepted online, by mail, or in person. You also can apply for personalized career counseling online or by mail.

Americans With Disabilities Act

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a civil rights law ensuring that people with disabilities, including disabled military veterans, have equal access to job opportunities and workplace accommodations. It prohibits discrimination based on disability and allows workers with disabilities to seek reasonable adjustments that help them perform their duties effectively. The ADA’s Guide for People with Disabilities Seeking Employment offers guidance for individuals with disabilities on their employment rights, including how to file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

Veteran Readiness and Employment

Veteran Readiness and Employment, formerly known as Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment, is a program for veterans who have a service-connected disability that limits their ability to work or prevents them from working. This program, also known as VR&E or Chapter 31, helps veterans explore employment options and addresses education or training needs. In some cases, family members might also qualify for certain benefits.

Veterans can apply for this program online, by mail, in person, or with the help of an attorney or another trained professional.

Job Accommodation Network

The Job Accommodation Network (JAN) is a free source for expert and confidential guidance concerning job accommodations and disability employment issues. JAN helps employers create inclusive workplaces, increase employment opportunities for people with disabilities, and advance the goals of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Individuals with disabilities also can consult JAN for confidential guidance regarding their employment rights, job accommodation solutions, and more. Access JAN service by visiting its website or calling 800-526-7234 or 877-781-9403 (TTY) between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. Eastern time. Help is available in English and Spanish. If you have a specific question about workplace accommodations and the ADA, you can submit it to JAN online.

Career Development for People With Disabilities

Individuals with disabilities often face numerous barriers to employment, including restrictions on how much they can earn if they depend on means-tested benefits. Making use of available resources can lead to a fulfilling career. For questions regarding your rights in the workplace, contact an experienced special needs planning attorney. They will be able to help you with your unique situation.

For additional reading for employment for individuals with disabilities and veterans, check out the following articles:

• Employment Up for People With Disabilities But Gaps Remain
• Competitive Integrated Employment: Working With a Disability
• Medicaid Coverage for Working People With Disabilities
• I’m on SSDI. Can I Work and Keep My Disability Benefits?
• Lesser-Known Resources for Disabled American Veterans